What Should I Look For When Choosing A Tummy Tuck Surgeon?
Choosing a plastic surgeon to perform your abdominoplasty, or “tummy tuck” surgery, is a critical decision. If you choose an under-qualified surgeon or one who speeds you through the consultation process, you could end up with unsatisfactory surgical results — or worse.
To achieve your desired aesthetic results following tummy tuck surgery and to minimize the risk of surgical complications, it is important that you choose the right plastic surgeon to perform your procedure. That is why New York City plastic surgeon Dr. Joshua Greenwald is sharing the following tips regarding how to choose a well-qualified tummy tuck surgeon.
Look for Board Certification
One of the most important factors to take into account when choosing a tummy tuck surgeon is board certification. You should only undergo plastic surgery with a plastic surgeon who is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS).
Plastic surgeons who are certified the ABPS must meet the rigorous criteria established by the Board. For example, to earn board certification, surgeons must complete five years of surgical training including two years of specific plastic surgery training. Other guidelines for earning board certification include operating exclusively in accredited surgical facilities, closely following a stringent code of ethics and having a practice that focuses chiefly on plastic surgery.
Look for Hospital Privileges
Choosing a plastic surgeon who has hospital privileges guarantees that the surgeon has been approved by a hospital committee comprised of medical professionals. The hospital committee chooses whether to grant a surgeon hospital privileges based on a variety of considerations, including educational background, training and overall surgical skill. Thus, choosing a plastic surgeon with hospital privileges in plastic surgery is an additional layer of protection to ensure you are choosing an experienced plastic surgeon.
Look for a High Patient-Satisfaction Rate
How do you find out if a prospective tummy tuck surgeon has a high patient-satisfaction rate? Ask! Ask to see patient testimonials. Of course, you are looking for glowing patient reviews. Also ask to see before-and-after photos of the plastic surgeon’s tummy tuck patients. Look for photos of patients who have a body type that is similar to yours. Hopefully, you like what you see.
If a prospective plastic surgeon is hesitant to share this information with you, be wary. A respected, skilled plastic surgeon will have no problem sharing both positive patient testimonials and before-and-after photos with you.
Choose Someone Who Makes You Feel Comfortable
Although this may sound obvious, choose a tummy tuck surgeon who makes you feel at ease and encourages open communication about your aesthetic goals for tummy tuck surgery. You want a plastic surgeon who listens to you, does not rush through your consultation, answers any questions you may have, and provides useful information about the surgical process and expected outcome. By choosing a well-qualified, well-respected and kind plastic surgeon, you can optimize your aesthetic results following tummy tuck surgery.
To schedule a personal consultation with Dr. Greenwald to learn more about tummy tuck surgery, please contact his practice by calling (914) 421-0113.
Dr. Joshua Greenwald is a board-certified plastic surgeon in New York City who studied and trained at prestigious educational institutions including Columbia University, Emory University, and New York University School of Medicine. His keen aesthetic eye and refined surgical techniques have led him to be a top choice for cosmetic face, breast, and body procedures in NYC. His exceptional patient care has earned him the distinction of “Top Doc” by both Westchester Magazine and Castle & Connolly for over 10 years running. Dr. Greenwald is an active member of the American Board of Plastic Surgery, the American Medical Association, and the Westchester County Medical Society.